TIAA, a leader in 529 plan management, brings reduced fees and enhanced digital capabilities to the college savings experienceOLYMPIA, Wash., Feb. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) is pleased to announce the relaunch of Washington's 529 college savings plan as WA529 Invest, a $690 million1 assets under management plan now managed by TIAA, the third largest program manager2 of 529 college savings plans. WA529 Invest is now a more accessible, affordable, and flexible way for Washington families to save for higher education.Under the new program management, WA529 Invest offers several enhancements for account owners. The annual $30 account maintenance fee has been eliminated along with most service-based fees and asset-based fees are reduced. Additionally, WA529 Invest provides more investment options, including a socially responsible and a guaranteed portfolio, while simplifying the Enrollment Year investment option.Account owners will benefit from enhanced convenience through a new, modern technology platform that makes managing accounts easier than ever. With the READYSAVE™ 529 app, users can access their accounts anytime, anywhere

From first-generation college student to the first Latina in the nation to run a four-year public higher education system, Chancellor García is recognized for improving academic outcomes for students across the CSU systemNEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- California State University Chancellor Mildred García, a first-generation college student turned trailblazer instrumental in helping students across the CSU system achieve academic success by spearheading policies and programs to help improve graduation rates and make college more affordable, is the recipient of the 2025 TIAA Institute Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence in Higher Education.The award is sponsored by TIAA Institute, the research division of TIAA, a leading provider of secured retirements for the not-for-profit market and administered by the American Council on Education (ACE).Named after the former president of the University of Notre Dame and longtime TIAA board member, Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., the award is presented each year to a current college or university president or chancellor for outstanding leadership of their institution and broad impact on higher education and society."The California State University's 23 institutions are rated among the best in the nation on affordability and for promoting social mobility—and Chancellor García has played an enormous role in making that happen," said Surya Kolluri, Head of TIAA Institute. "The first in her family to earn a college degree, she has inspired countless students through her trailblazing career and visionary leadership."García became the university's 11th chancellor in 2023, making her the first Latina in the nation to run a four-year public higher education system, but her dedication to student achievement began long before becoming chancellor.For nearly two decades, Chancellor García has championed for students across CSU by building partnerships to improve academic outcomes.Chancellor García is accredited with improving graduation rates and nearly tripling new philanthropic gift commitments during her time as president of CSU Fullerton. She also served as the first Latina president at CSU Dominquez Hills where she increased retention rates for first year and transfer students, eliminated a structural deficit of $2.8 million and exceeded enrollment targets